Is it Chauvinism or Chivalry- I am confused????? | Eastern NC Now

Why do I have trouble commenting on a substantive article written by a woman?

    I have posted before about labels, symbols and profiling vs stereotyping but I have a very perplexing dilemma. When I see a post that is a well-documented article with a solid point of view and researched facts, how should I comment if I have a quibble with one of the minor or major points. Well the first thing I do is see the author of the post. Therein lays the problem.

    As a good ole southern boy and I learned to respect the ladies. I guess that embodied in that training was a subliminal message that we should not take them too seriously but treat them with kindness and chivalry. Naturally, I resorted to my passion for research on the subject.

    Here is what I found:

• Chauvinism: The denigration, disparagement, and patronization of either sex based on the belief that one sex is inferior to the other and thus deserving of less than equal treatment or benefit.
• Chivalry: The code of chivalry emphasized bravery, military skill, generosity in victory, piety, and courtesy to women.

    I have been fortunate in my life to have met many "strong willed women" and I even married one. I have a daughter that I tried my best to raise to demand respect and equality in all things. However, I also tried to imbue her with the nuances of being a lady.

    I also have a son that I taught to respect the ladies and treat them with kindness and respect. However, I also tried to imbue him with the nuances of being a protector.

    I try to keep up with the trends of current society and the new connotations of certain phrases whose meaning has changed over the years. I am beginning to wonder if there is any reason for gender specific terms anymore.

    After the first cup of coffee this morning, I saw on the news that Target is removing gender based labeling.

    Click here to see the link to USA Today

    Unlike some, I was not able to have my prejudices scrubbed clean at Emory University. I learned the hard way that you never win an argument with a woman (chauvinism). I also learned that the best way to end an argument with a woman is with a simple "yes dear" (chivalry).

    Which brings me back to the original question?

    Why do I have trouble commenting on a substantive article written by a woman?

    However, more importantly and of more concern to me is the question.

    AM I BECOMING A LIBERAL WHO IS UNABLE TO FORM A CONCLUSION?????

    "A liberal is a man too broadminded to take his own side in a quarrel. "     ― Robert Frost